Agawam Dog Owners Group dogged in pursuit of money to create a dog park

Pages from the 2012 calendar put out by the Agawam Dog Owners Group, which is raising money to create a dog park on some city land across from Shea Field.Republican file photo

AGAWAM — The Agawam Dog Owners Group has raised more than $5,400 over the past year toward creating a dog park and is doggedly pursuing its goal of getting at least $20,000 for the venture.

“Twenty thousand dollars would be a good foundation to start from,” Debbi Sanchez, vice chair of ADOG, said.

Initial estimates of the cost of establishing a dog park ran from $20,000 to $50,000, with most of the expense being for fencing.

City officials have agreed to let ADOG establish a dog park in the northwestern corner of the Shea Field property.

That site abuts Robinson State Park and is accessible from Armory Drive.

Berkshire Design Group Inc. of Northampton has donated its services to draw up plans. Designs show a two-phase project with the first phase taking up about two acres on the western side of the proposed canine park site.

The first phase calls for a dog playground, a shelter, an information kiosk, a double-gated entry, a “doggie” drinking fountain and a dog waste station. The second phase consists of about 3.5 acres and would include a water fountain and gate to the east.

The group has raised money so far from selling its calendar, which features a canine of the month; running a trip to the Bronx Zoo, and holding a photography contest for dogs whose owners would like them to appear in the calendar.

There are still some 2013 calendars left. They are priced at $15 and may be purchased through ADOG’s website at agawamdogpark.com or by calling Sanchez at (413) 374-4684.

There are also plans for a second trip to the Bronx Zoo June 2. Tickets are priced at $55 for adults, $45 for children 3 through 13, and $25 for children younger than 3. For tickets, call Sanchez or Annmarie Lomonaco at (413) 786-2556.

“We are continuing to move forward and look for volunteers,” Sanchez said.

The group meets next on March 20 at 7:15 p.m. at the Agawam Public Library. Attendees will be given free ADOG paw magnets.

Proponents of a dog park have argued it would give canines a safe place to play and roam in a community that has a leash law.

ADOG leaders have pledged to develop and maintain the park. Sanchez said there may be the possibility of getting a grant from the city’s Community Preserve Act money for the project.